This easy & healthy apple cake is everything I love in a recipe — simple, wholesome, and full of flavour. It’s made with nourishing ingredients like oats, grated apple, maple syrup, and dates, which come together in the blender for a no-fuss batter that’s naturally sweet and full of fibre.
The texture is soft and spongy, with a warm cinnamon kick and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s the kind of cake you can enjoy any time of day — for breakfast, as a snack, or with a cup of tea in the afternoon. If you’ve got one apple and a few basics in your cupboard, you’re halfway there.
This one’s a seasonal favourite and a go-to when I want something feel-good and comforting, without any refined sugar or flour.
Cake For Breakfast? Yes, Please!
Cake is often seen as a treat reserved for dessert, but I love to make healthier versions of classic recipes, so you can enjoy something delicious while nourishing your body. Why not start your day with something that feels indulgent, like cake, but without the guilt? This healthy apple cake is the perfect example—it’s made with wholesome ingredients like oats, apples, and dates, giving you natural sweetness and plenty of nutrients.
By swapping refined sugars and flours for healthier alternatives, you can create a cake that not only tastes amazing but also supports your wellbeing. The best part? It’s easy to make and perfect for breakfast, so you can enjoy all the comforting vibes of a cake without compromising on nutrition. Get excited about breakfast and give your body the energy it needs to start the day feeling good. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
Tips
- Use a ripe, juicy apple: Sweeter apples like Gala or Pink Lady work best and help naturally sweeten the cake.
- Squeeze the grated apple: This helps remove excess moisture so the cake doesn’t turn soggy.
- Line your tin: Use baking paper or grease your tin well to prevent sticking.
- Cover with foil: Add a layer of foil on top before baking to stop the top from burning while the inside bakes through.
- Cool completely before slicing: This helps the cake set and makes slicing easier (and cleaner!).
Swaps
Oats: Use certified gluten-free oats if needed. You can also use oat flour for a smoother texture, though it may result in a slightly denser cake.
Oil: I used olive oil, but melted coconut oil, rapeseed oil, or unsalted melted butter will also work.
Maple syrup: Honey or agave syrup are good alternatives, though maple adds the best autumn flavour.
Dates: Swap with soft prunes or add a little extra maple syrup if you’re out of dates, though texture may vary.
Egg: A flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) can be used for a vegan version, though I haven’t tested this yet.
Apple: Pear can work as a seasonal alternative—just grate and squeeze as you would with apple.
Storage
Fridge: Store the apple cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It stays moist and flavourful.
Freezer: Slice and freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Defrost at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave before serving.
More Healthy Cake Ideas
Easy & Healthy Apple Cake
Ingredients
- 100 g oats
- 55 g extra virgin olive oil
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 30 g maple syrup
- 4 medjool dates
- 1 apple grated and squeezed a bit
- 1 tsp cinnamon powder
Optional
- sprinkle of icing sugar.
Instructions
- Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until everything is well combined.
- Pour into tin a bake for 23 mins at 180C
- Let it cool down completely before serving.
Video
Notes
- Gluten-free if using certified gluten-free oats
- Dairy-free
- No refined sugar – naturally sweetened with dates and maple syrup
- Can be made in a blender for easy prep and clean-up
- Great for breakfast, snack or dessert